A dream come true

On Festival Night Two of Reggae Sumfest, Jamaican singer-songwriter Annáe made an impressive début, captivating the audience with a seamless blend of soulful originals and classic dancehall flair. From the opening chords of Don’t Let Me Down to the heartfelt My Man, she held the crowd’s attention. By the time she performed her latest track, Reggae Riddim, the audience at Catherine Hall was clearly enjoying her sound.

As her set progressed, she surprised fans with a masterful rendition of Diana King’s 1990s international dancehall hit Shy Guy. Patrons of the event swayed and sang along, enjoying the performance of a true blast from the past. “Stepping onto the Sumfest stage was the dream I’ve carried since I first picked up a microphone,” Annáe reflects. “To feel the crowd’s energy and share my music alongside musical legends, that’s a moment I’ll cherish forever.”

Now, with her début performance firmly behind her, Annáe is already turning her focus to what comes next. Managed by Niche Entertainment Group, she’s in the studio refining the official single version of Reggae Riddim, which is scheduled for release in a few weeks. Alongside the single’s launch, Annáe will announce a series of live appearances across Jamaica. Plans are also under way for a music video that will visually capture the spirit and storytelling at the heart of her sound.

“Reggae Sumfest was my introduction,” she said, “But the journey is just beginning. I’m excited to share every new song, every performance, and every story with the people who’ve welcomed me so warmly.”

entertainment@gleanerjm.com